Clothing Terminology: Understand Key Fashion Terms Like Sundress, Activewear, and More

When you hear clothing terminology, the specific words used to describe garments, fabrics, and styles. Also known as fashion vocabulary, it’s what turns a vague idea like "something comfy for summer" into a clear choice like a sundress—lightweight, loose, and made for warm days. Getting these terms right means you won’t buy the wrong thing by accident, and you’ll know exactly what you’re looking at online or in-store.

Not all workout clothes are the same. Activewear is for running errands in yoga pants. Sportswear is built for actual sports—think sweat-wicking jerseys and reinforced seams. Then there’s performance wear, which uses tech fabrics to manage heat and moisture during intense training. These aren’t just marketing buzzwords—they tell you what the garment can actually do. Same goes for hoodie. A 100% cotton hoodie feels different from a polyester one. It breathes better, lasts longer, and doesn’t hold smells. Knowing that helps you pick one that actually feels good after a long day.

And it’s not just about comfort. Terms like vintage jacket or SWAT jacket tell you about history, function, and even culture. A vintage jacket isn’t just old—it’s a piece of style from a specific era, often with unique cuts or materials no longer made. A SWAT jacket? That’s tactical gear designed for high-risk situations, with pockets for gear and durable fabric. These aren’t interchangeable. Mixing them up can lead to bad buys or worse—wearing something completely wrong for the occasion.

Even simple things like "trainers" or "polo shirt" have backstories. Trainers weren’t named for workouts—they were named because they helped athletes train without slipping. A shirt with a collar? That’s not a T-shirt—it’s a polo. Get the names right, and you stop sounding confused when someone recommends a style. You start sounding like you know what you’re talking about.

Below, you’ll find clear, no-nonsense guides that break down exactly what these terms mean, where they come from, and how to use them. No jargon. No fluff. Just the facts you need to shop smarter, dress better, and talk about fashion without guessing.